"We will preserve the core identity of George Mason University while shaping a campus that uniquely reflects Korean characteristics.”
In an interview with Incheon Ilbo on the 10th, Joshua Park, Campus Dean of Mason Korea, emphasized collaboration with international universities to attract global talent to the Incheon Global Campus.
Since assuming office in July last year, Park has highlighted Mason Korea’s role as an extension campus of the U.S. institution, stating, “Mason Korea has boundless potential in terms of growth and internationalization.”
Mason Korea students benefit from a unique academic curriculum, spending three years at the Songdo campus in Korea and one year at the Fairfax campus in Virginia. The campus upholds the same academic standards as the U.S. campus while offering more affordable tuition and awarding the same degree as the U.S. institution.
A key priority for Mason Korea is internationalization by increasing international student enrollment. Currently, students from over 20 countries are enrolled at the campus. To further increase the number of international students, Park plans to expand partnerships with international universities, aiming to raise the proportion of international students to 40–50% within the next five years.
In particular, Mason Korea has been forming Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with universities across Asia. As a result, the growth of international student enrollment is expected to accelerate from next year.
“We are not just looking to collaborate with any university; we are focused on partnering with top-tier institutions,” Park stated. “Through this initiative, we seek to attract the top 1–5% of outstanding students to Songdo, providing them with education and supporting their transition to Incheon.”
Given its location in Incheon, Mason Korea also prioritizes collaboration with local schools and businesses. “Introducing American culture to Incheon’s government, businesses, and students is one of our primary missions,” said Park. “To support this, we have established MOUs with Inha University and the University of Incheon, jointly developing various programs.”
As part of this effort, Mason Korea is developing programs and workshops to help students from Inha and Incheon National universities build global competencies without needing to study abroad.
Additionally, Mason Korea collaborates with startups in Incheon. Its business school works with George Mason University’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) to assist local companies facing challenges in entering the U.S. market.
“Our business school provides practical support, such as courses in business-level English writing, to actively assist local businesses,” Park explained.
Ultimately, Park envisions Mason Korea deepening its integration with the local community and business sector while leveraging its strengths.
"Mason Korea will not be confined to a single field but will continue to evolve in response to corporate and regional needs, continuously improving its academic programs."
He concluded, “Last year, Mason Korea celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of establishing strong roots in the region. Over the next decade, we will focus on achieving tangible results and broadening our reach—attracting global talent and cultivating internationally competent professionals who can contribute both locally and globally.”
